Karnataka actress Ranya Rao's bail plea rejected by the court. The investigation revealed an international smuggling network, evidence tampering, and tax evasion.
Ranya-Rao-Case: Kannada actress Ranya Rao from Karnataka has suffered a setback as the 64th City Civil and Sessions Court rejected her bail application. Consequently, she will remain in jail. Previously, a special court dealing with economic offenses also rejected her bail plea, leaving her with only the High Court for potential relief. Her legal representatives are preparing to file an appeal in the High Court soon.
Serious Issues Raised by the Court While Rejecting Bail
The court, while rejecting her bail plea, highlighted several serious issues that emerged during the investigation:
International Smuggling Connection: The investigation revealed that Ranya Rao's case may be linked to an international gold smuggling network, posing a threat to national security.
Violation of Customs Regulations: She is accused of violating customs baggage regulations during air travel, providing b evidence against her.
Risk of Tampering with Evidence: The court fears that Ranya might tamper with evidence or attempt to influence the investigation if granted bail.
Frequent Foreign Trips: Twenty-seven foreign trips in a year have raised serious suspicions about her activities, potentially influencing the investigation.
Significant Tax Evasion: She is accused of evading 28% customs duty, causing a loss of over ₹4.83 crore to the government.
Risk of Fleeing the Country: The court also expressed concern that Ranya might leave the country if granted bail.
Apprehension of Influencing Witnesses: Given her influential personality, the court is concerned she might pressure witnesses or obstruct the investigation.
Court Deemed Custody Necessary
Considering all these aspects, the court rejected Ranya Rao's bail application, deeming her custody necessary for the ongoing investigation.
New Link in the Investigation by DRI
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has arrested another accused, Sahil Jain, in this case. Sahil is accused of disposing of the smuggled gold. Officials believe Sahil's arrest could be a crucial link in the smuggling network, potentially leading to the exposure of the entire case. The DRI has taken Sahil Jain into four-day custody, and the investigation is underway.
